The same day Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and special envoy for Middle East peace Sen. George Mitchell announced renewed hope for Palestinian and Israeli relations, and promised the creation of a Palestinian state, many SF State students discussed the idea that a single unified state is the only answer, and that the U.S. should butt out.

Students at Thursday night's Students Against War meeting believe that U.S. involvement will never solve the problems between Zionist beliefs, Palestinian heritage and the war that has plagued the Gaza strip. They spent the night discussing possible solutions.

"Mitchell will follow U.S. involvement, which is 100 percent support for Israel," said activist and guest speaker Linda Khoury. "This is what we want to tell you today," she added, "without America, Israel would not be able to commit these crimes in the Gaza Strip."

Nihar Bhatt, a member of S.A.W, spoke of some of the crimes Khoury mentioned. He talked about people being shot in the street, whole families being bombed in buildings and of white phosphorescence burning civilians.

"It's so important that we get the historical record straight," said Bhatt during his 20 minute speech. He said that "carrot of an independent Palestinian state" will lead to a solution of gunships, troops and blockades.

"The idea of a single state solution is extremely powerful," he said. "That is the strategy we should support here," along with an "end of U.S. aid to Israel and a renewed anti-war struggle."

Many many of the 50 or so people in attendance were members of S.A.W. and called on by name by the moderator during the question and answer session that followed.

Sarah Wendorf, a psychology major at SF State, saw the fliers and wanted to learn more about Palestine, but the topics and format only succeeded in confusing her. She will not return for next weeks meeting, instead deciding to research the topic herself.

Others came to make sure all sides were represented. SF State student Aaron Ackerman came to ensure having a voice of his own. As an American Jew with ties to Zionism, Ackerman said Thursday's discussion was related to who he is.

He wanted his presence to balance out and not just the "one-sidedness of the people presenting" and the people who came as well, which at most times were in agreement with guest speakers.

"What I know about Israelis is that they live in fear too," he said stating that he feels the best solution is the slow buildup of Gaza into a separate state.

He added that "after a time of peace, they will gain their right to be trusted."